My Journey from South Africa to the UK and into Counselling

In 2018, I relocated to the UK from South Africa, where I had qualified as a primary school teacher. My initial years in the UK were spent teaching and supporting children in schools. However, my career took a turn towards counselling after experiencing post-partum depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. This personal struggle with mental health ignited a profound desire within me to assist others with their mental health challenges.

My passion for helping children remained strong, and for the past two years, I have primarily been based in schools, providing mental health support to students. This year, after qualifying, I decided to start my private practice in response to the high demand for mental health support and the insufficient provision available to meet this need.

I currently hold a Level 5 Professional Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling Practice, which qualifies me to practice as a pluralistic Psychotherapist. You might wonder what differentiates a counsellor from a psychotherapist. Generally, a counsellor focuses on short-term issues, spanning six sessions or more, depending on the therapist. In contrast, a psychotherapist addresses more complex and longstanding issues, which can take several months to years to resolve.

Practicing pluralistically means that I do not specialize in one particular modality. Instead, I let the session be guided by what the client brings and adapt accordingly. For example, I might use person-centred therapy alongside CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and a psychodynamic approach, depending on the client’s focus.

Sessions are a place to feel comfortable and safe, and I like to include the creative aspects of art and music in the therapy room to enhance this environment.

My journey has been one of personal growth and professional development, and I am committed to providing the best possible support to those in need of mental health care.

Accreditation

I am an accredited member of the NCPS (National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society) and an individual member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy) which ensures I follow the ethical framework to practice as a psychotherapist.